Three.

Dear Aubrey,

A few weeks ago, you turned 3 years old.

I am fairly certain that I have said this in previous letters to you, but once again, if I could, I would pause you and keep you this age for just awhile longer.  You are just that sweet, and funny, and snuggly, and cute.  Maybe it's because I know that you are my last baby, or maybe you are just THAT fantastic, but either way, I could get used to having this version and this age of you around.

You are fiercely independent but at the same time the one that wants to be around me the most.  You play so well by yourself but will also just sit on my lap as I work on the computer quietly and contently.  You do not need any instruction or help to make up a game or go on a solo adventure.  You are the most content child I have ever experienced.

You still love you blanket (nee nee) more than anything but have recently been cut off from bringing it with us when we leave the house.  It was my doing...I just didn't think that a 3 year old really needed to be dragging a blanket around behind her at Costco or the hockey rink.  You have handled this transition well so far and enjoyed every homecoming a little more that you know nee nee is waiting for you.

This year will bring some changes for us as I am going to be home a lot more and you will not be in Nursery School like your sister did at 3.  It was a deliberate move on my part as your sister is starting Kindergarten and needed a bit more stability in the mornings before school.  I don't foresee you needing this same support from me, but who knows?  So for this year, it will be just you and I, every afternoon and wow does that ever excite me.  I genuinely enjoy every single minute that I get to spend with you and the fact that we will get so much time together is simply the best.

You are everyone's favourite.  I know that is partially due to the fact that you are simply the youngest but it is also due to the fact that you are just that fun.  Everywhere we go people are continually enthralled with you.  You have a certain positive energy and joy that radiates through your smile and your eyes that people can't help but notice.

You, my sweet girl, are a dream.  You are everything that a 3 year old should be and so much more than I ever knew was possible.  You have fit into our family effortlessly and perfectly and made everything so incredibly wonderful and complete.  You were the best decision your Dad and I have ever made and I am so incredibly thankful that you are OURS.

This video, like every other one, is so perfectly you.  You are so fun and cheeky.  And apparently you want to be a butterfly when you grow up - obvs.

Here's to you at 3 years new,

Mama
xoxo